There’s no question that a bike rack is such a superb way to transfer a bike during a trip. It is very important, especially in long-distance travel. However, things aren’t that always rosy. It’s understandable you don’t have enough money to purchase a costly product like a roof rack. Or, perhaps you’re not a frequent traveler.
So, what should you do in such cases? Do you have to endure a journey with your lovable bike? Nope. There are still other ways. You can transfer a bike without a rack. Yes, you heard it right. There are different ways.
The ways including, placing it inside part of the vehicle, transporting it over the car, using a truck bed, etc.
Well, I’ll discuss in-detail on how to transport a bike without a rack in this article. Let’s begin the discussion –
The 6 Ways/Tips to Transport a Bike without a Rack
Here, I’ll discuss the 6 superior ways for transporting a bike without a rack. Let’s check thoroughly –
Method 1 – Transporting a Bike at Car’s Inside
If you’re not using a roof rack to transport your bike, then transporting the bike at car’s inside place is undoubtedly the best option. You’ll find the proof when you’ll go to a long-distant places. But the problem is it’s not that easy. You need to go through a few procedures to complete the task. Here are those –
Step 1 – Clean the Bike
You just can’t fill the car’s inside with some expensive stuff, can you? After all, a car is a highly valuable product and putting something dirty will surely hurt you. Therefore, you must clean the bike thoroughly. Take away all the dirt and grimes from it. Also, clean the tire, wheel, and steel parts to bring it in tiptop condition.
Step 2 – Unfasten the Bike Wheel Off
Take off one or two wheels from the bike. It will depend on the car’s inside space. The main purpose is to make the bike smaller so it will easily adjust on your car.
Step 3 – Fold the Rear Seat
It’s time to fold the rear seat down. Folding the back seat will assist you significantly minimize the equipment’s space.
Step 4 – Keep the Chain at a Secured Place
You should keep the bike chain at a smallest ring. So, there won’t be any oil or residues will make an entry to the car’s surface.
Step 5 – Place the Bike Finally
After disassembling certain parts and reducing its size, you can now place the bicycle inside the vehicle.
To ensure proper weight distribution, position the bicycle with its gears facing.
Avoid placing the entire weight of the bike on its gears as it can cause damage. It is crucial not to overlook this step.
Neglecting this important step poses a risk of damaging your bike, especially the gear mechanism.
| Problem – It’ll create a problem if you take too much gears on the car’s inside part. |
Method 2 – Transporting a Bike on Car’s Top
So, roof rack is the only option to carry a bike on car’s top? No! There are also other option. You can convey the bike by tie the bike down with some rope. Yes, it’s a complicated option but it’s still viable and good option.
Nevertheless, one thing you should keep in mind. While tying down the bike, use a sturdy strap or rope.
| You should ensure that the knots are tightened enough so the bike won’t move easily. |
Method 3 – Storing the Bike in Car’s Trunk
Do you have adequate time to assemble and disassemble a bike? You can also store it in the car’s trunk. Firstly, dismantle the bike apart and put all those pieces into a strong box. In order to safeguard the bike from scratches or any type of damages, you must use a soft blanket.
Now, the parts are in the box. You can put the box into the trunk and slowly close the lid of the car. Now, drive slowly and stop making any unnecessary movement while driving. It will keep the bike’s parts safe and secure.
| The trunk must be cleaned and are in tiptop condition to avoid any unwanted pressure on the bike. |
Method 4 – The Back Seat
It’s another good option. You can easily put the bike on the back seat of your car if you don’t have to keep anyone there. But there’s a condition on that. You can only keep your bike in larger-sized vehicles. Additionally, you need to disassemble the bike and put the parts of it on the car’s back seat.
| Use a belt to keep the bike parts secure while driving. |
Method 5 – Use a Truck Bed
If you use a truck or pickup car, transporting a bike is a breeze for you! It’s a very simple procedure. Just put the bike on the truck’s bed. After that, secure it tightly with a bungee cord, rope, etc.
| The knots must be tightened enough |
Method 6 – Public Transportation
If available in your area, public transportation can be an excellent option for transporting your bike without a rack. Buses, trains, and subways often have bike-friendly policies during non-peak hours.
Henceforth, you need to check the regulations and schedules of your local public transportation system to ensure a smooth journey.
| You need to put extra eyes while transporting your costly bike in public transportation. |
Conclusion:
Transporting your bike without a dedicated rack is possible with some resourcefulness and careful planning. Whether you’re using a pickup truck, utilizing your car’s interior, or opting for trunk-mounted or hitch-mounted racks, there are various solutions available to suit your needs.
Remember to prioritize safety, secure your bike properly, and protect both your bike and vehicle during transportation. With these creative solutions, you can confidently transport your bike and embark on new cycling adventures.
